A Love Letter to the Black Community
Dear Beloved Community,
As Black History Month closes, I want to take a moment to honor you, the heart and soul of our collective efforts and brilliance. This month, and every day, we stand in awe of the strength, wisdom, and determination that runs through our veins. Our rich history of Black culture, of scholars, of leaders, of change-makers, is not just a foundation—it is the very fuel that propels us forward.
This year, as we face ongoing challenges, particularly in the realm of Black maternal health, we are reminded of the powerful legacy that has paved the way for us.
From the countless ancestors who fought for our freedom, like Bridget “Biddy” Mason, midwife, real estate entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder of the First A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles, to the tireless leaders who continue to advocate for justice,we are the living embodiment of their dreams and sacrifices. We carry their spirit and vision forward, ensuring that the next generation of Black mothers/birthing persons and their families are supported, protected, and uplifted.
While the world around us may sometimes feel heavy, and our communities continue to endure political obstacles, I want to remind you of the importance of rest, rejuvenation, and mental well-being. Your tireless work in your families, your communities, and your professions does not go unnoticed. But it is also essential to honor your need for care. Prioritize yourself, take time to recharge, and remember that you are not alone.
This month, take time. Whether that’s time to reflect, moments to rest, or focus on taking action. Take time. Take that time, those moments, close your eyes and take a breath for all of it. Our lineage spans centuries, and the work we are doing today is creating a legacy that will be honored by those who come after us.
We, at AAIMM, are here for you—not just to offer support and resources, but to stand with you. We are here to listen, learn, and understand how to best support you as our community members and partners in improving our holistic health together. At AAIMM, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting Black families and birthing persons. Whether you are a new mother, an expectant father, a community member, or a dedicated advocate, we are here to provide the resources, the knowledge, and the community you need.
As we celebrate our culture and history this month, we also honor the present and future we are building together. If you tuned into the Super Bowl, perhaps you enjoyed the halftime show, where Compton, California native Kendrick Lamar, with the help of actor Samuel L. Jackson, shared powerful messages about the injustices Black people continue to face. You might have also celebrated Jalen Hurts’ first Super Bowl win as the quarterback with the Philadelphia Eagles, learned that Autumn Lockwood became the first Black woman coach to win a Super Bowl, or stood with pride watching the Nike ad celebrating powerful athletic women and people, with a strong message for all of us—'You Can’t Win, SO WIN.' Each of these moments served as a reminder to me that we are not just descendants of leaders; we are the leaders of today and tomorrow. Within each of us lies the power of those who stood for justice, the wisdom of those who made history, and the courage of those who stand tall in the face of adversity.
Thank you for your continued determination, joy, and for the light you bring into the world. You are the heart of our movement, and together, we will continue to build a future that honors and uplifts every Black mother/birthing person and our community.
With gratitude, love, respect, and solidarity,
Adjoa Jones
Birth Equity Unit Chief/Director, African American Infant/Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative (AAIMM)
Maternal Child, Adolescent and Health Division
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
During Black History Month, Abundant Birth Project took part in the City of Inglewood’s Black History Celebration Family Festival, a day of culture, music, food and community honoring Black history and excellence. AAIMM also took part in the Pan African Film & Arts Festival to present a special screening of The Ebony Canal, a documentary short about Black infant mortality narrated by Viola Davis. Additionally, the AV AAIMM CAT hosted a free community event at the Lancaster Community Center focused on supporting Black mothers and babies.
In response to the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County, AAIMM released an online resource guide to help our Village come together to provide support and make space for those in need. Find resources here.
Additionally, Sugar Heal is organizing free health services for pregnant and postpartum moms impacted by the recent wildfires. Visit sugarheal.com for information and to sign up.
Want to Provide Backbone Support to AAIMM?
AAIMM has issued a Request for Proposal for Backbone Support for the South LA/South Bay Community Action Team. Submissions are due March 3. The selected organization will provide administrative, operational, and logistical support working with the SLASB AAIMM CAT Leadership, Planning Team and all CAT members to collectively advance goals and objectives.
Interested organizations should review the RFP here.
Upcoming Events and Campaigns
Take part in our ongoing programs to support healthy and joyous births for Black families. Click the fliers below for more information!
AAIMM EXPECTANT FATHERS GROUP
- MARCH 4TH.
CFCI / AAIMM Doula Pregnancy
and Infant Loss Support Group
We welcome parents and family members to join a 10-week Pregnancy and Infant loss support group, providing a secure and empathetic setting where you can openly discuss your experiences of loss with others who are navigating similar challenges.
BLACK MAMAS GLOWING© (BMG)
PEER SUPPORT GROUP
This year i.D.R.E.A.M. for Racial Health Equity, a project of Community Partners partnered with Providence Health System to offer Black Mamas Glowing© to the Black pregnant/birthing community for FREE.
Our group is open to any pregnant or recently postpartum Black identifying person and their support people. This space was created to decrease isolation and build community. Your partner/family/doula is welcome to join us.
World Doula Week
March 22 to March 28, 2025
AAIMM Doula Program
“Meet The Village” Event March 25
We are thrilled to invite you to AAIMM Doula Program’s 2nd Annual "Meet the Village" event, a community resource gathering designed to support expectant birthing African-American/Black people, their families and those within the birthing community. Hosted by the AAIMM Doula Advisory Committee, this event will connect families with essential resources, support networks, and providers who are dedicated to ensuring positive birth experiences.
📅 Date: March 25, 2025
📍 Location: MLK Jr. Center for Public Health, 11833 Wilmington Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90059
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join us for a day of empowerment, information, connection and giveaways! Stay tuned for more details on featured speakers, community partners, and available resources.
AAIMM (African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative) Doula Program is proud to partner with: LA County Public Health, LA Medi-Cal Doula Hub, Birthworkers of Color Collective, First 5 LA “Welcome Baby”, Richstone Family Center, AAIMM Fatherhood Program, AAIMM San Gabriel Valley, YWCA San Gabriel Valley, Breastfeed LA, Open Paths, Frontline Doulas, the Irth App & more to make this event extra special!
We hope to see you there!
Flyer and registration to be distributed soon.
Doula Support Available
With World Doula Week almost here, did you know that if you are African American and pregnant, you may be able to receive free support from a birth doula? Check the flyer above for information and resources, and enroll today.
Black Maternal Health Week
April 11 to April 17, 2025
Fatherhood Initiative
At AAIMM we believe fathers and partners benefit from having their own Village to equip them for their fatherhood journey. Learn how to get involved in virtual and in-person programs for Black dads on the Fatherhood page on the AAIMM website.
One of the fatherhood programs we offer is Black Daddy Dialogue, which brings together African American / Black fathers for support with the goal of changing the narrative around African American/Black fathers and families. The drop-in group (held the 2nd Wednesday of every month) continues in 2025 via monthly Zoom meetings. To join, email [email protected].
Abundant Birth Project Offers Cash
During Pregnancy
The Abundant Birth Project (ABP) is a guaranteed income program that provides cash during pregnancy. It was developed by Expecting Justice, research partners, and the community to make birthing healthier and safer for the people facing the greatest risk during their pregnancy journey. ABP provides cash to low-income pregnant individuals with no strings attached as a strategy to prevent stress during pregnancy. Research shows this is likely to prevent babies from being born too early or too small and can also protect the health of the mother (or birthing parent). By providing unconditional cash, mamas have resources to support themselves and their families, and babies have the chance at a healthy start. Apply for cash during pregnancy at abundantbirthproject.org.
Join Our Community Action Teams
Make a difference in your community by joining our local efforts to end Black infant and maternal deaths in Los Angeles County. Stay tuned for information on dates for upcoming CAT meetings:
Antelope Valley AAIMM CAT
Join our team: for more information, email [email protected] or [email protected]
Stay tuned for the next meeting date!
South LA & South Bay AAIMM CAT
Join our team: for more information, email [email protected] or [email protected]
Next Meeting/Event: SLASB AAIMM CAT Bi-monthly Regional Meeting
Every Other Month, the 4th Thursday.
San Gabriel Valley CAT
Join our team: for more information, email [email protected] or[email protected]
Next Meeting/Event: SGV AAIMM CAT Bi-monthly Regional Meeting
Occurs the Last Wednesday of Each Odd Month.
Santa Clarita & San Fernando Valleys AAIMM CAT
Join our team: for more information, email [email protected] or [email protected]
Next Meeting/Event: SCSFV AAIMM CAT Meeting
Stay tuned for the next meeting date!
Send us Your Upcoming Events
If you would like to see your event added to our next newsletter, please use the AAIMM Village News Updates form to let us know about any news, stories, events, or important information that you'd like to share with the AAIMM community. The next edition of the AAIMM Village News will be sent out in mid-December.
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